Flying Fijians down Samoa in Apia

The Flying Fijians recorded an impressive 33-19 victory over Samoa in Apia. The Fijians dominated the first half, scoring all four of their tries in the opening 30 minutes to take a commanding 30-5 lead at halftime.

Hooker Tevita Ikanivere scored two tries in quick succession, while Iosefo Masi, making his Test debut, also crossed the try line after a brilliant assist from the experienced Semi Radradra. The best try of the match came from Selestino Ravutaumada, who finished off a stunning 90-meter effort initiated by Kalaveti Ravouvou.

Samoa, coming off a thrilling 24-22 upset win against Japan, struggled to contain Fiji’s early onslaught. Their lone first-half try came from fly-half and former Wallabies international, Christian Leali’ifano.

In the second half, Samoa put up a stronger fight and managed to score two tries through Tumua Manu and Fritz Lee. However, Fiji’s Caleb Muntz kept them at bay with his accurate kicking, scoring a total of 13 points from the boot.

Next weekend will see Samoa host Tonga, while Fiji will travel to Japan.

Scorers:

For Samoa:
Tries: Leali’ifano, Manu, Lee
Cons: Leali’ifano 2

For Fiji:
Tries: Ikanivere 2, Masi, Ravutaumada
Cons: Muntz 2
Pens: Muntz 3

Teams:

Samoa: 15 Danny Toala 14 Nigel Ah Wong, 13 Stacey Ili, 12 Duncan Paia’aua, 11 Tumua Manu, 10 Christian Leali’ifano, 9 Ereatara Enari, 8 Fritz Lee (captain), 7 Jack Lam, 6 Steven Luatua, 5 Taleni Seu, 4 Chris Vui, 3 Paul Alo-Emile, 2 Ray Niuia, 1 Jordan Lay
Replacements: 16 Sama Malolo, 17 Titi Lamositele, 18 Charlie Faumuina, 19 Brian Alainu’u’ese, 20 Genesis Mamea-Lemalu 21 Melani Matavao, 22 Alai D’Angelo Leuila, 23 Ed Fidow

Fiji: 15 Ilaisa Droasese, 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 13 Iosefo Masi, 12 Semi Radradra (captain), 11 Kalaveti Ravouvou, 10 Caleb Muntz, 9 Simione Kuruvoli, 8 Viliame Mata, 7 Vilive Miramira, 6 Meli Derenalagi, 5 Isoa Nasilasila, 4 Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, 3 Luke Tagi, 2 Tevita Ikanivere, 1 Eroni Mawi
Replacements: 16 Zuriel Togiatama, 17 Peni Ravai, 18 Samu Tawake, 19 Joseva Tamani, 20 Kitione Kamikamica, 21 Peni Matawalu, 22 Vilimoni Botitu, 23 Josua Tuisova

Referee: Angus Gardner (Australia)
Assistant Referees: James Doleman (New Zealand), Matthew Kellahan (Australia)